FSFA: MOCHA has a new space at 1221 Broadway in Oakland. What's different?​MOCHA: Our new space is great! It allows MOCHA to have simultaneous program spaces where we can interact with children and families through hands-on art making in our studios, and exhibit local art in our gallery. It was important to us that we remain in downtown Oakland, and the new museum is located in City Center, right at the 12th Street BART station. We look forward to opening our doors and welcoming people in to our new museum in January 2019.

FSFA: What's special about MOCHA?MOCHA: We provide children, youth and adults opportunities to create, share, explore, and connect through art. MOCHA is unique because we're not a traditional museum; our space is not just for looking, but for creating and expressing too. And that’s what makes us special, the emphasis is not only on the artwork made but the engagement and learning that happens in the the process of making art.

FSFA: What are your most popular programs?MOCHA: Our Camps for elementary aged students are very popular. Anytime school is out, MOCHA camps are happening. We also have Open Studio Wednesday through Saturday, which is a drop-in program for participants to engage with and explore the elements of art. Open Studio is not just for kids though; it provides opportunities for parents and kids to co-create and co-learn. On weekends, MOCHA is busy with Art Parties and other events.​FSFA: When did MOCHA start? How does MOCHA work with schools?MOCHA: Our artist residencies started in schools in 1989 when California eliminated funding for arts. In addition to field trips to our museum, we’ve been leading artist residencies at schools and in community spaces for 30 years. If there’s a school without an art teacher, MOCHA provides an artist. These programs are true collaborations between MOCHA and our community partners throughout the Bay Area. Through our school, community and museum programs, MOCHA reaches 25,000 people annually.

FSFA: Join FSFA and MOCHA for the Holiday Auction!​This this Saturday, December 1st, 4th Street Fine Art is partnering with The Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA) for something extra special. Click here to get the scoop!